Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has been omitted from the England squad for the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany following a hugely disappointing season.

Rashford has been a regular feature for England manager Gareth Southgate throughout numerous international campaigns, notably during the recent World Cup run. His introduction from the bench was eagerly anticipated by many fans during the Qatar campaign, as he netted three goals in just 137 minutes of play throughout the entire tournament.

He found the back of the net just 49 seconds after being subbed on against Iran in England’s first match and scored twice against Wales – one of which was a spectacular free-kick that had many pleading for him to start against France.

However, Rashford has hit a rough patch, with uncertainty surrounding his future at his childhood club United and a temporary halt to his international career.

The 26-year-old has struggled to maintain form for United this season, scoring eight goals and providing five assists during the 2023/24 campaign – a significant decline compared to his 30-goal haul the previous season. Despite missing only six matches due to injury, the Manchester-born striker is feeling unsure about his future at the club, reports the Mirror.

In the midst of speculation about his future, Rashford has lost his spot in the England squad, with manager Southgate conceding it was “difficult” to omit the forward. The rise of Chelsea’s Cole Palmer and the impressive performances of Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon haven’t made things easier for the 26-year-old.

Additionally, Southgate’s preference for deploying Phil Foden on the left flank left little room for Rashford.

Southgate said: “These are, of course, difficult calls. You are talking about players that are very good players and who have been an important part of what we have done over a number of years.

“With Marcus, I just feel that other players in that area have had better seasons. It is as simple as that.”

He further noted Rashford’s professional response to not being selected, stating: “I have to say all the boys, when I have spoken to them, Ben [Chilwell], Marcus, Jordan – who were the three that were with us last time – they were incredibly professional. Considering the disappointment, they dealt with it very well.”

Reacting to his exclusion, Rashford took to social media to extend his best wishes to his England colleagues. On his Instagram story, he wrote: “Wishing Gareth and the boys all the best for the up and coming tournament.”